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Vivitrol is one type of brand name for a drug called naltrexone, which is primarily used for treating alcohol dependence and opioid addiction. This particular brand, however, works better than other types of medication because of its formulation as an extended-release injectable suspension.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Vivitrol in 2006 as a treatment to curb alcohol cravings. According to its official site, when compounded by consistent counseling or therapy for at least six months, Vivitrol may reduce an alcoholic's desire to drink heavily by as much as 25 percent.
Our addiction doctor in Minneapolis uses Vivitrol to treat patients diagnosed with alcohol dependency. It is only injected once a month during the patient’s visit.
Vivitrol is an antagonist that works by blocking the molecules in the brain that tend to create the addiction or craving for alcohol. Usually, this craving is strongest when an alcoholic has quit the habit, thus Vivitrol is often prescribed by our addiction doctor in Minneapolis when the patient has already stopped drinking and has likely completed a detoxification process. Otherwise, the treatment won’t work if the patient is still drinking.
As an antagonist, this medication attaches to the opioid receptors that block the brain from releasing dopamine. However, the effects of Vivitrol may be good for one month at a time, thus, subsequent monthly injections, which are usually administered in the buttocks, will still be needed until such time that the patient craves the alcohol less and less.
It is up to the doctor to determine the dosage of the medication but most likely, the patient will be starting off with a lower dose. An increase in the dosage may be possible after the doctor has monitored, evaluated and observed the patient for side effects and withdrawal symptoms.
As with other medications, Vivitrol has known side effects that may be managed and prevented if the patient informs the doctor right away. Among the common but mild reactions that some patients have after their first Vivitrol injection include headache, nausea and vomiting, tiredness, muscle cramps and pain in the joints.
In some cases, the injection site may be itchy or painful, or may develop swelling and hardness, as well as blisters and wounds due to an allergic reaction. The medication may also impact a person's moods and lead to depression.
At any rate, any side effects must be reported to the health care provider as soon as possible for treatment adjustment and medical attention.
Vivitrol is not supposed to be administered if the patient has opioids in his system, either from street drugs or prescription medications. If the person is also going through opioid withdrawal, the FDA advises against this treatment as it may lead to complications like an overdose or death.
Before taking this medication, the patient must inform their doctor of their other medical conditions, since Vivitrol may be risky for people with liver and kidney problems. Usually, the doctor will not prescribe this drug unless the patient has been thoroughly evaluated via a urine test to determine the presence of opiate drugs, other medications, and kidney or liver issues.
To reap the full benefits of taking this drug, the patient must commit to an overall rehabilitation program in addiction medicine, Minneapolis. Experts said that adherence to this treatment is most effective when undergoing counseling as well.
Valley Medical and Wellness Addiction Medicine in Minneapolis provides innovative and comprehensive addiction therapy. We are dedicated to healing your mind, body, and spirit, and helping you stay motivated to change. All this while empowering you to create a happier and healthier life for yourself.
Schedule an appointment with our addiction doctor in Minneapolis today. You can speak to all members of our staff in confidence. We value your privacy. Call us at (612) 444-3000.
